MEET THE BOARD

Leadership Dedicated to Healing and Hope

The board of directors for Peaceful Warrior Rising brings together individuals who are deeply committed to supporting trauma survivors and expanding access to healing resources. Each member of the board shares a belief that recovery from trauma is possible when individuals are surrounded by compassion, understanding, and meaningful support. Through their leadership, the board helps guide the organization’s mission of providing healing retreats and community programs for survivors, first responders, veterans, and others impacted by life-altering events.

The board provides strategic guidance, oversight, and support to ensure that Peaceful Warrior Rising continues to grow as a trusted nonprofit dedicated to trauma recovery and emotional wellness. Together, the board works to strengthen the organization’s programs, expand outreach efforts, and build partnerships that help more individuals access the healing experiences they deserve.

Board Members

Karen Hellman is the Executive Director and Founder of Peaceful Warrior Rising, an organization born from her personal journey as someone directly impacted by 9/11. Guided by her own healing process, Karen envisioned creating transformative retreats where survivors could gather in community, process trauma, and rediscover strength, connection, and hope. Her leadership is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving those who continue to carry the invisible wounds of that day.

Karen’s professional path reflects a lifelong dedication to helping others. She holds a Master’s Degree in Gerontology and began her career working with older adults before transitioning into the corporate world. She later returned to service-based work as a Hospice and Geriatric Massage Therapist and now provides full-time support to individuals facing mental health struggles through her work on a crisis hotline. Across every chapter of her career, she has remained committed to one-on-one connection, emotional support, and holistic care.

Through years of self-exploration and advanced trauma-informed training, Karen developed expertise in body-centered and heart-focused healing modalities, including somatic practices, breathwork, energy healing, and trauma-sensitive touch therapies. Her intention is to expand Peaceful Warrior Rising nationwide, offering retreats and healing spaces across the United States to serve the thousands of individuals still seeking transformation, resilience, and renewed purpose.

Executive Director, Karen Hellman

Terri Andreozzi - Treasurer

Terri has over 32 years in New Business Development working for various employers, with the majority of that time working for regional and national payroll companies, including ADP and Paychex. She also spent over 4 years working with CFO's and VP's of Revenue Cycle in a hospital consulting role helping both independent and large hospital systems maximize reimbursement opportunities. She excels in opening up new markets, creating sustainable relationships and always doing the right thing for a win/win outcome. Her experience in payroll and finance will carry over in her role as Treasurer.

Terri is a passionate Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, and JourneyDance™ Facilitator who believes laughter, joy, and movement are medicine.

Drawing on lived experience and deep compassion, she offers vibrant, energetic, and supportive classes that help people heal, transform, and connect through community and collaboration. Having lived in the New York City area her whole life, she is thrilled to be a part of Peaceful Warrior Rising, as good friends near and dear to her heart were affected by the events of 9/11.

Lisa Evans - Secretary

Lisa Evans comes to Peaceful Warrior Rising with over 35 years experience working for some of the world's leading companies including Johnson & Johnson, The Coca-Cola Company, WK Kellogg Company and Ferrero Group. Her interest in Peaceful Warrior Rising stems from witnessing the impact 9/11 has had on the life of family and friends who were directly impacted by the events of that day.

Deborah Newman - Advisory Committee Member

Deborah Newman is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and community advocate serving as an Advisory Board Member for a nonprofit supporting 9/11 survivors and their families. As the founder of Petite Taway Inc., a Virginia-based web design and digital marketing agency, she brings over 15 years of experience in branding, digital strategy, and organizational growth.

In her advisory role, Deborah provides strategic marketing guidance and supports the organization’s expansion efforts nationwide—helping increase awareness, strengthen outreach, and grow its impact across the country. Her leadership is rooted in service, resilience, and a deep commitment to mission-driven work.

With a background in hospitality, nonprofit engagement, and community leadership, Deborah is known for her collaborative approach and ability to connect people, ideas, and resources. She is passionate about ensuring survivor-focused initiatives receive the visibility, support, and national recognition they deserve.

Supporting the Mission

The leadership of Peaceful Warrior Rising works alongside community partners, volunteers, and supporters who share the vision of helping trauma survivors rebuild their lives. Together, we

are creating a growing community dedicated to healing, resilience, and hope.